Los Angeles-based indie-funk ensemble Thumpasaurus is equal parts eccentricity and musicality, resulting in a weird and wonderful sonic world. Formed by vocalist and guitarist Lucas Tamaren, Henry Was on drums, Logan Kane on bass, sax player Henry Solomon, Paul Cornish on keys and Ben Benjamin adding visuals, this unique group has been winning over audiences since their formation in 2015.
Known for their theatrical and experimental live performances, Thumpasaurus has shared stages with the likes of Louis Cole, Vulfpeck and Jacob Collier among others. Their performances are an exhilarating blend of music, humour and sheer spectacle, leaving audiences with lasting memories of the shows.
With their latest single, “Alien Sex Tape,” Thumpasaurus once again ventures into uncharted territory, delivering a quirky synth pop cut that’s as infectious as it is absurd. The track opens with a mix of buzzing synth tones, and as a puncy beat kicks in, the energy surges before Lucas Tamaren’s vocals enter with a stuttered rhythm, adding an extra layer of quirkiness to the sound. The lyrics are delightfully bizarre, inviting listeners into a world where the ordinary gives way to the extraordinary.
One of the defining features of “Alien Sex Tape” is its ability to surprise at every turn. Just when you think you’ve got the song figured out, Thumpasaurus throws a curveball. In the chorus, a burst of lightly fuzzy guitar chords adds a touch of rock edge, creating a moment of musical elevation.
Logan Kane, the band’s bassist, then serves up a popping bass solo that adds a layer of funky groove to the song. It’s a reminder that while Thumpasaurus may be known for their eccentricity, they’re also a group of highly skilled musicians who can navigate complex musical landscapes with ease and flair.
The band’s upcoming third album, titled Hard is set to drop on October 20th and promises to be a wild and unpredictable ride. If “Alien Sex Tape” is any indication, listeners can expect the unexpected.
We caught up with Thumpasaurus to find out more about their musical journey so far, their new single “Alien Sex Tape” and what their upcoming record has in store. Check out our interview with Thumpasaurus below.
Hey guys, how’s things?
Hey there! Things are going pretty great in the world of Thumpasaurus. BUSY. Sometimes. Always stuff to do.
How did you get together as a band?
As for how we got together as a band, we met in college and started playing house parties and covers. Stones covers, Bruno Mars covers. It was sick.
Which artists do you draw most inspiration from today?
We draw inspiration from so many artists. We love the energy of acts like Prince and James Brown, the creativity of artists like David Bowie and Talking Heads, and the sounds of bands like Knower and Thundercat.
How else do you find inspiration for your music?
Inspiration can come from anywhere for us. Sometimes it’s a random conversation, a funny story, a movie, an argument. We’re always keeping the door open for anything and everything to be inspiring. Walking. Walking is very inspiring.
What do you love about the Los Angeles music scene?
The Los Angeles music scene is incredible. It’s a melting pot of diverse musical styles and cultures. There’s a constant flow of creativity and collaboration happening here, and we thrive on that energy. It’s a place where you can truly experiment and are surrounded by people trying to push and make something happen.
What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?
The perfect setting for listeners to enjoy our sound? We’d say it’s a sweaty, packed nightclub with people dancing/. Our music is all about getting people on their feet and having a great time.
How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?
Our style and sound have definitely evolved since we started out. We’ve become more confident in our experimentation and are not afraid to take risks.
How did you find making your new single “Alien Sex Tape”?
“Alien Sex Tape” was a blast to make.
What message did you want to get across with this release?
It allowed us to dive deep into our weirder side where we can just take a story and run with it and find a world within the sound and lyrics.
What can we expect from your upcoming album?
Our upcoming album is going to be a wild ride. Expect Thump but newer?
What artist have you been listening to most recently?
Lately, we’ve been listening to artists like Thundercat, Bruce Hornsby and Timmy Tim Tim.
What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?
The main thing we want people to get out of listening to our music is pure joy and feeling.
What’s been your favourite live performance so far?
Favourite live performance? There have been so many memorable ones, but performing at major festivals like Coachella and Bonnaroo were definitely highlights for us
Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?
As for our dream festival lineup, it would have to include Prince, Daft Punk, and Radiohead. And it would be held in a lush, exotic location like my mom’s backyard.
Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?
For new artists, our advice would be to buckle up baby!!
Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of 2023?
As for the rest of 2023, we have some exciting tours and collaborations in the works, along with more music releases. Stay tuned y’all.
Listen to Alien Sex Tape below
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